Rodri Threatens De Jong's Spot at Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong's future with Barcelona is in doubt as the club is close to signing Spanish midfielder Rodri, while De Jong is struggling with a knee injury.

Frenkie de Jong is suffering from a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee. Barcelona and the player have decided to follow a conservative treatment program instead of undergoing surgery, although the option for surgery remains if his condition does not improve as expected.

De Jong will not start the season with Barcelona, as Rodri arrives at the club in good physical condition to fill a position that the Dutchman is accustomed to playing. Coach Hansi Flick also has several other options in midfield, including Pedri, Dani Olmo, Fermín López, Marc Bernal, and Gavi.

Rodri's arrival could reduce Frenkie de Jong's chances of starting when he returns. Additionally, Barcelona could benefit from the player's long absence if his injury is classified as long-term, allowing the club to free up salary cap space to register new players, especially if they decide to move for a striker like Julián Álvarez.